David Brooks and Leo Tolstoy Flashcards
What are resume virtues?
Resume virtues are those qualities and achievements that are typically highlighted on one’s resume or CV.
They are the external markers of success and competence, such as academic achievements, professional accomplishments, job titles, and material wealth.
Resume virtues are often associated with worldly success and the pursuit of external recognition.
What are eulogy virtues?
Eulogy virtues, on the other hand, are the qualities and values that people remember and celebrate at one’s funeral or in eulogies.
These virtues are not about external achievements but rather focus on one’s character, kindness, empathy, moral integrity, and the impact one has had on the lives of others.
Eulogy virtues reflect the deeper aspects of a person’s character and their contributions to the well-being of others and society as a whole.
What does Tolstoy’s ‘Death of Ivan Ilyich’ illustrate about our attitudes toward death and about the central questions of ethics?
Denial and Fear of Death: Ivan refuses to acknowledge his terminal illness, and when confronted with the reality of his impending death, he experiences intense fear and existential dread.
Superficiality and the Pursuit of Social Conventions: Ivan’s entire existence is superficial, and built on conforming to social norms, pursuing a career, and maintaining a respectable facade. His life lacks authenticity and meaning.
The Search for Meaning: As Ivan Ilyich grapples with the reality of his death, he begins to search for meaning in his life.
The Importance of Empathy and Compassion: Ivan Ilyich’s suffering and isolation force him to confront the lack of genuine empathy and compassion in his relationships. His colleagues and even his family members fail to provide the emotional support and understanding he needs.
How does Tolstoy argue that the eulogy virtues are more important?
Emphasis on Eulogy Virtues: Tolstoy argues through Ivan Ilyich’s journey that the eulogy virtues, or inner qualities of character and morality, are ultimately more important than external success and social status. As Ivan nears death, he longs for authentic human connection, love, empathy, and forgiveness. He recognizes the hollowness of his past life and yearns for something deeper and more meaningful.
The Superficiality of Society: Tolstoy uses Ivan’s interactions with society, especially his colleagues and acquaintances, to critique the shallow values and social conventions that dominate his world. These interactions highlight the contrast between surface appearances and inner truth.
The Final Epiphany: In his final moments, Ivan experiences a profound epiphany. He realizes that he should have lived a life filled with love and empathy rather than one driven by ambition and societal expectations. His final words, “What if my whole life has been wrong?” encapsulate this realization.
